Nyanza region are the new champions of the U18 rugby trials after defeating Western region 14-0, avenging last year’s narrow 7-5 loss.
The side was guided by recent FEASSA-winning coach and World Rugby Level Two tactician Lee Arstone.
The regional trials, which double up as selection matches for the national U18 side, are part of the development pathway aimed at transitioning players to Chipu (U20) and eventually the Simbas.
The matches were overseen by Director of Rugby Paul Odera, who will soon name the 33 players making the final cut.
Nyanza’s first try came through back rower Ezekiel Wanjala of Kisii School, with Timothy Wesonga of Yala adding the extras.
Soon after, Hughes Ombasa dotted down following a well-executed backline move, and Wesonga once again converted to seal a 14-0 lead.
Speaking to The Scrummage Africa, Coach Arstone praised the Kenya Rugby Union for their efforts:
“I want to thank the Kenya Rugby Union led by Paul Odera and Ronald Okoth for a well-organised tournament. This year’s edition had clear improvements compared to last year, and that’s a big plus for them.”
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On his side’s triumph, he added:
“I want to congratulate my boys for a well-played game and for sticking to the game plan. That discipline drove them to this victory, and I hope it pays off when the final U18 team is named.”
2025 National Under-18 trials saw Rift Valley, Central, Coast, Western, International Schools, Eastern, Nyanza and Nairobi Region feature.
This followed the completion of successful regional trials across seven regions, alongside the international schools, which were recognized as the eighth region.
From each of these regions, 33 players were selected, bringing together a pool of 240 student athletes who will now vie for places in the national setup.
Over the course of the two-day trials, the young talents will were evaluated through a carefully structured process. Day one combined pitch training sessions and boardroom assessments, while day two was dedicated fully to competitive matches.
